patronymically from an unused name (from פָּלָה) meaning separate; a Pelonite or inhabitant of an unknown Palon; Pelonite.
Transliteration:Pᵉlôwnîy
Pronunciation:pel-o-nee'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term פְּלוֹנִי (Pᵉlôwnîy, `{{H6397}}`) is a patronymic, indicating a person's origin or lineage. Its base definition points to an unused or unknown name, "Palon," which itself is derived from the root פָּלָה (palah, `{{H6395}}`). The root פָּלָה carries the core meaning of "to be distinct," "to be separate," "to be set apart," or "to be wonderful/extraordinary." Therefore, "Pelonite" fundamentally signifies someone from a place or lineage that is distinct, set apart, or perhaps even obscure. The ambiguity inherent in "an unused name" or "an unknown Palon" suggests that while the individual's origin was specific, its broader recognition or significance may have been limited, making the identifier more about the quality of being "distinct" rather than a widely known geographical marker.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term פְּלוֹנִי (Pᵉlôwnîy, `{{H6397}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in [[1 Chronicles 11:27]]. In this passage, it is used to identify one of David's mighty men: "Helez the Pelonite."
The context of [[1 Chronicles 11]] is a detailed list of the elite warriors who joined David and helped establish his kingdom. This chapter meticulously records the names and, often, the places of origin or tribal affiliations of these men, highlighting their diverse backgrounds and the breadth of support David garnered. Helez the Pelonite is listed among "the thirty," a distinguished group within David's army. The specificity of the appellation "Pelonite," despite its ambiguous etymological origin, indicates that it served as a clear identifier for Helez among his contemporaries. It distinguishes him from others, perhaps by a unique regional association or a lineage known for its distinctiveness, even if the precise location of "Palon" remains unidentifiable to modern scholarship. This singular occurrence underscores the meticulous nature of the Chronicler's record-keeping, preserving even obscure but historically relevant details about David's loyal followers.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic relationship for פְּלוֹנִי (Pᵉlôwnîy, `{{H6397}}`) is its root, פָּלָה (palah, `{{H6395}}`). This verb, and its derivatives, frequently convey the idea of separation, distinction, or being set apart, often by divine action. For instance, in [[Exodus 8:22]], God promises to "put a division" (וְהִפְלֵיתִי, from פָּלָה) between His people and the Egyptians. Similarly, in [[Psalm 139:14]], the psalmist praises God for making him "fearfully and wonderfully made" (נִפְלָאוֹת, from פָּלָה), emphasizing the unique and distinct nature of creation.
Other related concepts include:
* **Geographical Identifiers:** Terms like "Gileadite," "Tekoaite," "Anathothite" (e.g., `{{H6626}}`, `{{H8620}}`, `{{H6069}}`) are common in biblical genealogies and lists of warriors, serving to locate individuals by their place of origin. "Pelonite" functions similarly, albeit with an obscure referent.
* **Obscure Lineages/Places:** The Bible occasionally mentions individuals or places whose exact origin or significance is not fully detailed, yet they are included in important historical records, suggesting their relevance in their time (e.g., "Perezite," `{{H6557}}`, a clan of Judah).
* **Divine Distinction:** The underlying root פָּלָה (palah) often points to God's act of distinguishing His people or performing extraordinary acts. This theological resonance, while not directly applied to Helez, adds a layer of depth to the word's etymological foundation.
### Theological Significance
While פְּלוֹנִי (Pᵉlôwnîy, `{{H6397}}`) itself is an obscure historical identifier, its theological significance can be explored through its single occurrence and its etymological root.
1. **God's Use of All People:** Helez the Pelonite was a mighty man in David's army, a key figure in the establishment of God's chosen king. His inclusion, despite his seemingly unknown or "distinct" origin, underscores a broader biblical theme: God uses individuals from all backgrounds and places, even those not widely known or from seemingly obscure origins, to accomplish His purposes. This resonates with God's call of Abraham from Ur of the Chaldeans or His choice of a shepherd boy like David to be king.
2. **The Meticulousness of Divine Providence and Record-Keeping:** The Chronicler's precise listing of David's mighty men, including Helez the Pelonite, reflects a meticulous attention to detail. This can be seen as mirroring God's own meticulousness in His dealings with humanity and His providential care for His people. Every individual, no matter how "distinct" or seemingly minor in the grand scheme, plays a role in God's unfolding plan.
3. **The Concept of Distinction (from פָּלָה):** The root meaning of "separation" or "distinction" is profound. In a theological sense, God often "separates" or "distinguishes" His people for a holy purpose (e.g., Israel from the nations, priests from the laity). While Helez's "Pelonite" designation is not explicitly linked to a divine separation for holiness, it subtly points to the idea of being uniquely set apart, perhaps by geography or lineage, within the broader tapestry of Israel. It reminds us that every person holds a unique identity and place within God's created order and His redemptive narrative.
### Summary
פְּלוֹנִי (Pᵉlôwnîy, `{{H6397}}`) is a unique Hebrew patronymic, appearing only once in the Bible as "Helez the Pelonite" in [[1 Chronicles 11:27]], identifying one of David's esteemed warriors. Derived from the root פָּלָה (palah, `{{H6395}}`), meaning "to be distinct" or "to be separate," the term suggests an origin from an "unknown Palon" or a lineage known for its distinctiveness. Its singular occurrence highlights the Chronicler's meticulous historical record-keeping, emphasizing the individual contributions of David's diverse supporters. Theologically, "Pelonite" subtly points to God's ability to use individuals from all backgrounds, even those from obscure or uniquely "distinct" places, for His divine purposes, and underscores the meticulousness of His providence in human affairs.
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